How to Start a Kitchen Herb Garden
A kitchen herb garden needs 4–6 hours of light, 6–8 inch pots, and the right herbs. Basil, parsley, chives, and mint are the most forgiving.
You don’t need a garden. You need a window and 4-6 small pots.
Best Herbs for Indoors
| Herb | Light | Water | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basil | 6+ hrs | Regular | Easy |
| Parsley | 4-6 hrs | Regular | Easy |
| Chives | 4-6 hrs | Regular | Easy |
| Mint | 4-6 hrs | Regular | Easy |
| Cilantro | 4-6 hrs | Regular | Medium |
| Thyme | 6+ hrs | Low | Easy |
| Rosemary | 6+ hrs | Low | Medium |
Setup
- Pots: 6-8 inch with drainage
- Soil: Potting mix
- Light: South window, or grow light
- Water: When top inch is dry
- Rotate: 1/4 turn daily
Common Problems
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering | Water less |
| Leggy | Not enough light | Move or grow light |
| Dying | Cold | Keep above 60°F |
| Pests | Dry, stressed plants | Isolate, treat |
Common Questions
Can I grow herbs in a north window? Mint and parsley tolerate it.
How often do I water? When top inch is dry.
Do I need fertilizer? Every 2 weeks at 1/4 strength.
Can I grow herbs year-round? Yes, with 6+ hours of light.
Why are my herbs dying? Usually overwatering.
Should I repot store-bought herbs? Yes. They’re crowded in nursery pots.